Meet Nicole, our new Leadership Development Officer

Nicole McKerracher joined our Organisational Development team in January 2026, taking on the newly-created role of Leadership Development Officer. She brings with her a wealth of experience in learning, development and transformation having worked for a diverse range of private-sector companies, including water services supplier Business Stream and Next. Her background spans technical training, digital learning, large scale change programmes and talent development, and she is now developing new ways we can grow and support our workforce. 

Shaping a future ready workforce 

Nicole is currently focused on designing and embedding a new Leadership Development Framework, ensuring we future proof our workforce. The new Framework will offer clear pathways to grow and succeed for people with differing levels of leadership, and those who aspire to lead. At its core is a recognition that the majority of learning comes from on-the-job experience, followed by interaction with others and formal training.  

One of Nicole’s early priorities has been formalising and strengthening our existing mentorship programme and peer support groups, ensuring they are accessible, visible and valuable for colleagues at all levels. 

“We are centralising our mentoring programmes, with defined goals and greater clarity for those taking part. It’s about creating the conditions where people feel supported and equipped to lead well,” Nicole explains. “Leadership at every level matters, so our framework needs to reflect that.” 

Transitioning from the corporate world into local government has brought new insights. 

“Coming into the council with no previous public sector experience has been a challenge,” she says. “There’s a lot to get to grips with, from political contexts to the very real pressures services face. But stepping in with fresh eyes has also been a huge advantage.” 

Building connections, shaping what comes next 

During her short time with us, Nicole has been meeting leaders and teams across services, hearing first-hand about the work they do, the challenges they’re navigating and the development support that would make the biggest difference. 

Later this year, she will launch our first development pathway for Aspiring Future Leaders, a key milestone in bringing our Leadership Development Framework to life. 

“I’m excited about the momentum we’re building,” she says. “There’s a real appetite for development across our council, and I’m looking forward to helping colleagues grow, progress and lead with confidence.” 

To get in touch with Nicole or find out more about the New Leadership Development Framework, just email leadershipdev@eastlothian.gov.uk 

Frances and Tracey complete national scholarship programmes

Two colleagues have been awarded certificates recognising their completion of national scholarship programmes.

Frances Paterson, an Assistant Area Officer in the Facilities Management team, was honoured for her success in the ASSIST FM Cleaning Scholarship delivered by the British Institute of Cleaning Science (BICS).

Frances helps to support and manage catering, janitorial and cleaning staff in facilities in primary and secondary schools, libraries, community centres, and Crookston Care Home in Tranent.

Tracey McConnachie, Area Officer of Nutrition with Facilities Management, completed the Learning to Lead Scholarship delivered by We Are Extraordinary Training. Part of the ASSIST FM Scholarship initiative, the course is aimed at developing leadership capabilities among staff in Scotland’s local authorities.

Frances and Tracey were presented with their certificates at a ceremony which welcomed future leaders from councils across the country in catering and cleaning services.

Frances, who has worked with us since 2021, said: “The BICS scholarship gave me a better understanding to the world of cleaning which I can pass on to our staff to achieve a higher level of cleaning within our establishments.”

Her six-month course was a mixture of training days, home study and assessments covering an array of topics including environmental awareness, greenwashing, building inspections, cleaning science and cleaning inspections.

Tracey has been a valued member of the service since 2002 and began her career as a Catering Assistant. Committed to developing her skills and knowledge, she attended college for two years to attain her Catering SVQs.

Progressing into the role of Cook Supervisor, which she held for 17 years across several schools, she advanced to the position of Assistant Area Officer before being appointed Area Officer where she continues to provide strong leadership and operational oversight.

Tracey’s scholarship programme combined in‑person and online learning with a focus on key subjects including employee engagement, team resilience and mental health in the workplace

Vanessa Sanal, Service Manager with Facilities Management Services, said: “Tracey has gained valuable tools to support her continued development and effectiveness as a leader through the scholarship. She now feels better equipped to guide, support, and strengthen her teams, applying her new skills to enhance both wellbeing and performance across her area. Frances’ achievement not only broadens her personal expertise but also helps us embed best practice across our cleaning teams. She is equipped to lead, support, and strengthen her team’s knowledge, applying her new skills to enhance the service.”

Congratulations to Frances and Tracey.